February 26, 2026

By Obituaries on February 26, 2026.

HARDY HILGENDORF

HARDY HILGENDORF 1954-2026
It is with immeasurable sorrow that the family of Hardy Hilgendorf of Medicine Hat announce his passing on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the age of 71 years. Reinhard Hilgendorf was born in Medicine Hat, Alberta, on September 27, 1954. Growing up in the Riverside neighbourhood and attending the local elementary school, he never liked his first name and would pick up the nickname “Hardy”, which would then become the name he would use for the remainder of his life. As the second child of newly immigrated parents from Germany during his school years, he would help them in their business, European Imports, and would later recount many early mornings and hours spent preparing sausages in the basement of their store. After graduating from Crescent Heights High School, Hardy would go on to attend Medicine Hat College in the welding apprenticeship program. He would also enjoy playing drums in the college’s band through the conservatory, Hepplewhyte, and would join them on their European tour. In 1975, he married Caroline Schiebelbein, whom he would be married to for 41 years and share three sons with. Hardy was a dedicated husband and father, with passion and a good eye, he would go on to design two of their family homes. In the mid 80’s, Hardy would go from welder to partner in his father’s business, Kurts Iron Works, where he would eventually share this partnership with his brother Frank, until his retirement in 2017. Hardy leaves behind a legacy of being a dedicated and passionate supporter of this community, generously giving his time and leadership to organizations that helped shape Medicine Hat. As a founding member of the Medicine Hat Hockey Hounds, he played an instrumental role in creating opportunities for young athletes and fostering a strong local hockey tradition. He was also a valued contributor of the Medicine Hat Cubs, supporting the development of sport and encouraging teamwork, discipline and community pride. Beyond the arena, he was committed to conservation efforts through his many years of work with Ducks Unlimited, and through his professional life demonstrated outstanding leadership while serving as President of the Medicine Hat Construction Association where he worked to strengthen the local construction industry and build meaningful connections within the business community. Hardy will be lovingly remembered by his three sons, Nathan (Trina), Christopher (Ivana), and Andrew (Megan). As an incredibly attentive and cherished grandfather his loss will be deeply felt and he will be dearly missed by his grandchildren, Brody and Adam (Nathan), Bentley and Hudson Stewart (Trina), Ashton, Isaac, Julian, and Jasper (Christopher), as well as Cannon and Jovi (Andrew). He was predeceased by his wife, Caroline, and his parents, Kurt Hilgendorf and Erna Ohmann. Hardy will be missed by his sister, Rita McArthur (Doug), brother, Frank Hilgendorf (Lorraine) and their children as well as his stepmother, Hanna Hilgendorf and mother-in-law, Gabriel Schiebelbein. The funeral service will be held in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with Life Celebrant, David Townsend officiating. Reception will follow at the Medicine Hat Golf and Country Club. The service will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually or leave a message of condolence, please visit Hardy’s obituary at http://www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
PATTISON FUNERAL HOME
AND CREMATORIUM
540 South Railway St. SE,
Medicine Hat T1A 4C2

RONALD FURGALA

1944 – RONALD FURGALA – 2026
Some men build their lives on ambition. Ronald Furgala built his life on faith and from that foundation, everything else grew.
His love for Jehovah and His Son, Jesus, was the anchor of his life. It guided his decisions, shaped his character, and directed the way he loved his family. His faith never wavered. It wasn’t something he kept in words alone he lived it, quietly, consistently, and fully, in every part of his life.
Ronald had a strong work ethic the kind that didn’t need recognition. He believed in doing the job right, in following through, and in carrying out his responsibilities fully. He worked hard not for praise, but because it was simply who he was.
He was well respected not because he demanded it, but because he lived in a way that naturally drew it. And if someone needed help, he never hesitated. Quietly and sincerely, he showed up and made a difference. Through steady kindness, thoughtful guidance, and simple acts of service, he touched the lives of many people sometimes in ways they may not have even realized.
Ronald had a love for life’s simple joys. He appreciated the outdoors time spent in nature was a reminder of the Creator’s gifts and the beauty of His world. He loved music and dance, often sharing laughter and joy with those around him. His playful sense of humor remained, and his lighthearted dad-jokes always brought smiles.
To his wife, Lena his partner for over 60 years he was a devoted and faithful husband. Together, they built a marriage rooted in love, loyalty, and shared faith. Side by side, they faced life’s joys and challenges, creating a home grounded in Jehovah’s principles and a legacy that will carry on for generations.
To his daughter, Deidre, he was protection, guidance, and unwavering belief in her strength.
To his son, Gerald, he was more than a father he was a teacher by example. Ronald showed him how to lead a household with integrity, put family first, and work hard, leaving Gerald a living model of love, steadiness, and commitment as he raises his own family.
To his grandchildren, Ronald’s love was endless. He laughed with them, cheered for their successes, comforted them, and found joy in everyday moments together. He was proud of each one, celebrated who they were, and showed them by example how to live with love, steadiness, and faith.
And to his brothers, Dave and Larry, and his sisters, Larraine and Geri if he could speak to you now, it would be with gratitude and love. Thank you for the shared memories, the tears and laughter, the history only siblings understand. Hold onto the bond you shared. Until you meet again, may you find comfort in the hope he cherished and the faith that carried him through his life.
Now, as we grieve, we hold onto the same hope that sustained him confidence in Jehovah’s promises and trust in the future that He assures. That hope does not erase sorrow, but it strengthens us through it.
Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Ronald Furgala. Funeral arrangements by
SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL
CHAPEL CREMATORIUM &
RECEPTION CENTRE,
“The Chapel in the Park
#1 Dunmore Road SE,
Medicine Hat, AB T1A 1Z5
(403)528-2599
http://www.saamis.com
inquiry@saamis.com
Locally owned and directed
CGR Holdings Ltd.

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